Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

WHAT IS THE DISEASE?

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a new strain of coronavirus that affects the respiratory tract and may cause minor to severe illness. Novel Coronavirus strains can spread from person to person through contaminated droplets (through coughing or sneezing), contaminated hands or through touching an infected surface. The signs and symptoms of the disease will be noticeable only within 1 to 14 days (incubation period) from the time of exposure.

The symptoms are:

1. Fever
2. Shortness of breath
3. Cough
4. Headache
5. Sore throat

Is there any treatment for COVID-19?

The treatment of COVID-19 depends on enhancing the immunity level of patients, treating the symptoms and prevent complications, as there is no specific treatment for the virus to date.

Is there a vaccine against the Novel coronavirus (COVID-19)?

Currently there is no available vaccine that protects against novel coronavirus.

Do vaccines against pneumonia protect you against the new coronavirus?

No. Vaccines against pneumonia, such as pneumococcal vaccine and Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib) vaccine do not provide protection against the new coronavirus. However, vaccination against respiratory illnesses is highly recommended to protect your health.

How to reduce your risk of Corona Virus infection?

1. Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness.
2. Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
3. Use a hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
4. Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues.
5. Avoid animals (alive or dead), animal markets, and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat).

Note: Avoid traveling abroad due to the spread of COVID-19 in multiple countries, except if it is an extreme necessity.

MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT THE CORONAVIRUS

Can antibiotics cure COVID-19?

No it can’t, antibiotics fight bacteria and have no effect on viruses.

Can garlic protect us from COVID-19?

Garlic is healthy as it contains antimicrobial properties. However, there is no evidence that consuming garlic can protect us against COVID-19.

Can I shop online?

Yes, you can. There is no scientific evidence until now, which proves that COVID-19 can be transmitted through products.

Am I at risk of being infected with COVID-19 if an infected person walks past me?

No, it can only be transmitted if you have direct contact with the person infected (less than two meters away) through constant contact and through touching.

In the absence of a tissue, why should we use the inner part of our arms when coughing or sneezing?

The droplets that come out when coughing and sneezing contribute to the spread of viruses such as cold, flu, etc. and it is best to use the inner part of the arm if a tissue is not available because there is no contact between that part and the things we frequently touch or use.

Can regularly rinsing your nose with saline help prevent infection with the new coronavirus?

No. There is no evidence that regularly rinsing the nose with saline has protected people from infection with the new coronavirus. But it may help people recover more quickly from the common colds.

References:

Dubai Health Authority COVID-19

WHO Covid-19 Advice for the public: Myth Busters